Analytical and Simulation Models for Reliability Analysis in Water Distribution Systems

Abstract

The two primary objectives in design and operation of water distribution systems are (i) minimisation of the cost of supplying water and (ii) maximisation of reliability in the supply of water. These two objectives are in conflict, however, in that increases in reliability of supply almost invariably lead to increases in cost. The problem of design and operation of water distribution networks is therefore multi-objective in nature. One of the major issues facing engineers and governments involved in the design, operation, and maintenance of water distribution system is how to reconcile these two objectives such that both cost and reliability are achieved at acceptable levels.